Primary Innovation & Learning

Our Prep students are amazing!

Our Prep students are amazing!  What a fabulous start to the year we have had. It is incredible to see just how much we have learnt in our very first 8 weeks of school! Prep have embraced our new I Love Reading program wholeheartedly.  

We are already getting confident with the sounds letters make and using these to read and write words!!! We practice the sounds that each letter makes daily so we can be confident when we stretchy snake words such as r-u-n. 

We are also learning to use critical thinking skills when we are reading stories. Curious Clyde is helping us to ask questions and think past just literal questions. Sometimes the answer isn’t found in the text of the story so we need to think deeper.

Curious Clyde helps Prep Red with their reading comprehension

Prep have also been learning what a sentence is. Now that we know the difference between letters, numbers and words, we are learning to use words to make a sentence. The only problem is…Sneaky Sam sometimes messes the sentence up so it doesn’t make sense! Our job is to read the words and put the sentence in the correct sequence.

Prep Blue ‘fixes’ the sentence that Sneaky Sam jumbled. First, we cut up the words and assemble them so the sentence makes sense. Next, we glue it in the correct order. Then we copy the sentence remembering to begin with a capital letter, put a space between each word and a full stop at the end.

Well done Prep students! We are proud of how you are so excited to continue your journey in reading and writing.

Jeremy Williamson

Head of School – Primary

Welcome

Dear Parents/Carers, As a valued member of our College community, I would like to update you on our planning for Term 2. Our exceptional teaching …

Genesis@Home
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Dear Parents/Carers,

As a valued member of our College community, I would like to update you on our planning for Term 2. Our exceptional teaching staff have been working incredibly hard to prepare for all possible scenarios moving forward. Genesis will begin school operations for Term 2 on Monday 20 April. The Queensland Government will inform schools during the school holidays as to what form school will take at the beginning of Term 2. Should the College be closed at the beginning of Term 2, we are well prepared to deliver education for your child/ren in the home. Genesis@Home is our platform for this scenario, and we are excited about the wonderful learning and opportunities this will provide for students at Genesis.

SO, WHAT IS GENESIS@HOME?
Genesis@Home seeks to continue to provide the exceptional levels of learning, care and support for families in a package that can be used from home. Our vision for Genesis@Home is to provide so much more than simply learning in an online form. We believe that some of the valuable aspects of a Genesis education include the community connection, networking, high level of support including pastoral care and encouragement as well as the personal touches in life learning such as encouraging a sense of service and growing young people in Christ-likeness. Therefore, Genesis@Home seeks to bring these elements together in a package that your child/ren can engage with from your home.

YOU CAN FIND GENESIS@HOME AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATION
https://www.genesis.qld.edu.au/genesis-at-home/

Please take some time to become familiar with the many wonderful resources available on this site and note the various methods that will be used to deliver learning to your children.

WHAT WILL GENESIS@HOME LOOK LIKE FOR PRIMARY STUDENTS?
Our Genesis@Home digital learning experiences aim to provide flexible and engaging learning for our Primary children throughout the day from Prep to Year 6. Parents will receive a daily email by 8:15am (Monday to Friday). This email comes from the classroom teacher and will include directions to all work to be completed that day.

Prep to Year 2 – Due to the unique nature of Lower Primary learning, Online learning in the Lower Primary Year levels will be supported by physical resources our staff have designed and collated. Every student in Prep to Year 2 has a Learning Resource Pack made for them, which is designed to support learning for the whole of Term 2.

This Friday, 3 April, the Prep to Year 2 learning resource packs will be available for collection from your child’s classroom between the hours of 8:00am and 1:00pm; or during the holiday period, packs can be collected from the College Reception. If you cannot collect the physical pack, a digital version of the pack, including items you would need to source will be provided in an email to you this Friday. Using the survey link below, please indicate your details, and resource pack collection preference. Please complete a new form for each child in Prep to Year 2.
Prep – Year 2 Resource Pack Collection survey

For Year 3, 4 and 6 students – all of your daily schoolwork can be accessed through Showbie, your online digital learning platform. Your teachers in all subjects will run classes through Showbie.

For Year 5, who have been working this year in Microsoft Teams and OneNote – likewise, all your learning will happen through these programs.

We have provided a daily routine plan on the Genesis@Home website; however, in Primary we are not following the school timetable, so please be flexible and feel free to adapt this schedule to meet your family’s needs.

Above all, we are in Primary school, so remember, learning should be lots of fun, and not be a burden; and if it gets a bit tough, the Primary Leadership Team, Learning Support Staff, Classroom and Specialist teachers will be in regular contact with you, and are here to support you every step of the way.

WHAT WILL GENESIS@HOME LOOK LIKE FOR SECONDARY STUDENTS?
Our Genesis@Home learning platform is built upon the strengths of Genesis that we hold dear, and shaped by online learning research and experience. We will continue both a highly personal and supportive experience and maintain our high academic standards.

Students will be engaged in a normal timetable, from Form at 8:30am right through to classes finishing at 3:00pm. We will come to you at the start of each lesson via video (using the Teams platform) to explain what needs to be covered and explain the learning being undertaken. We will deliver the best blend of online delivery whilst maintaining the interpersonal connections that bring the best out of our students.

Personal Development and Christian Life have been set as independent study. Students’ teachers won’t be checking in, as we are asking parents to get alongside their children in these lessons. We think this is a great opportunity for parents to engage in some serious discussions about character, integrity, faith and wellbeing as a family. All learning expectations, sequences and video will be stored on each class’ OneNote so students can catch up should circumstances prevent them from following their timetable timeframes. If you do not have access to the internet during a campus closure, could you please contact us to discuss your circumstances?

FINANCIAL HARDSHIP
We understand that these events do have the potential to create significant hardship. Families of our College who have had their employment directly impacted by COVID-19 are encouraged to contact the Finance Department early in order to discuss your circumstances.

As we enter the Term break, I wish you God’s blessing and protection for the weeks ahead.

Blessings,

Paul Sterling

Principal

Library News

Library Resources Our professional Library staff care about our students and so are providing extra online learning and reading opportunities for our Genesis community. We …

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Library News

Library Resources

  • Our professional Library staff care about our students and so are providing extra online learning and reading opportunities for our Genesis community. We have increased the numbers of students who may read the Primary and Secondary Wheeler eBooks and audiobooks. We have subscribed to two new databases: Ancient and Medieval History and Modern History. Box of Books is our new eTextbook
  • Our virtual library online resources are available 24/7 on and off campus. Go to our Genesis website https://www.genesis.qld.edu.au/ and click on the link to the Student Café portal. Please follow the prompts below each icon for login details.

Learning and reading

  • General: Destiny – the library catalogue; Accelerated Reader, Box of Books
  • Databases: A-Z Cultures, Britannica, Gale, Ancient and Modern History, World Book
  • eBooks: Gale and Infobase Learning provide non-fiction eBooks; Storybox, Ziptales and Wheelers provide mainly fiction stories …
  • Tools: Turnitin; Library Handbook for how to do research and APA referencing guidelines.
  • Box of Books: is our new eTextbook platform. For extra textbook technical support, students may contact Box of Books via the in-app support (button at the bottom right of the Box of Books screen). Please note that for Secondary students and Year 6 Cambridge Maths, it is advisable to download the PDFs of their textbooks on the Genesis campus (not at home) via the Box of Books APP found in the Software Center applications section on their school laptops.

Borrowing books for the school holidays: In addition, to the many digital resources, we are allowing students to borrow extra books for the school holidays. Here are two Year 9 students taking full advantage of the new 10 novels per student policy:

Support: If you have any concerns regarding library matters, please email:

Joy Payne

Director of Library Services

Primary Sport

Primary Sport While it has been disappointing to have so many sporting events cancelled, it is a great opportunity to talk to your children about …

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Primary Sport

Primary Sport

While it has been disappointing to have so many sporting events cancelled, it is a great opportunity to talk to your children about resilience and dealing with disappointments. We have been having these conversations with students as events have been cancelled or postponed due to the current health climate. 

Genesis Christian College Cross Country Carnival

It was fabulous to see such great persistence and effort at our recent College Cross Country carnival. Congratulations to the following students who were age champions on the day: 

  1st  2nd  3rd 
8 Years Girls  Ruby Kovac  Sienna Gillions  Savannah Unicomb 
8 Years Boys  Deezil Piper  Bailey Santa  Thomas Tripp 
9 Years Girls  Ayla Johnson  Amelia Lee  Eliza Bulger 
9 Years Boys  Thomas Merlin  Cameron Emmerig  Theo Hardie 
10 Year Girls  Chelsea Lewis  Lucy Exton  Poppy Maxwell 
10 Years Boys  Matthew Turner  Blaze Wilson  Felix Nielsen 
11 Years Girls  Sienna Barr  Maddison Rand  Lucy Paterson 
11 Years Boys  Owen Hollyman  Jonty McCreedie  Lyndan Quigley 
12 Years Girls  Regan Burke  Ella Postle  Emma Nieuwoudt 
12 Years Boys  Manie Van Tonder  Luka Lendvay  Santiago Rosario 

Congratulations to Gilead who were our House Champions and to every runner on the day. Every single point is valuable for each house and we congratulate all students on their efforts on the day.  

Trans Tasman Cup Golf

Congratulations to Phoenix Gaulke who recently competed in the Trans Tasman Cup for Golf in NZ. He represented his country and Genesis Christian College with pride shooting a personal best score finishing as runner up at the tournament. 

Representatives

Congratulations to the following students for their respective selections: 

Pine Rivers Netball Team: Olivia Young, Ella Postle, Caitlin Keane, Isabella Schmidt-Ellwood. 

Pine Rivers AFL Team: Elijah Nicol 

Met North Basketball Team: Lucy Topp 

Upcoming Events

  • GCC Prep-2 Fun Run – Tuesday 28 April 
  • Pine Rivers District Cross Country – Friday 1 May 
  • All School Cross Country – Saturday 9 May 
  • CSSAQ Cross Country – Monday 11 May 
  • NISSA Cross Country – Friday 15 May 
  • NISSA Gala Day – Friday 22 May 

Louise McCarthy
Director of Sport- Primary

Genesis OSHC

Children shaping the way of their future Here at OSHC we encourage children to control the direction their learning takes through their own innovative approaches. …

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Genesis OSHC

Children shaping the way of their future

Here at OSHC we encourage children to control the direction their learning takes through their own innovative approaches. We understand that it is a child’s world, in which we are a part. 

A strong emphasis is setting the environment, both indoor and outdoor, in which benefits the children and enables their rights when it comes to their learning environment. Our spaces are continually adapted, designed and constructed through ongoing reflective discussions with the children, staff and families. 

Our vision is to enable children to have free flowing experiences, supporting self-exploration and independent creative expression. We aspire to carefully set our environments to encourage independent thinking and allow children to drive their program through leisure and play. OSHC provides for active learning whilst still offering relaxed and quiet spaces to unwind from the busy schedule of a primary school student. 

As we enter Term 2, we will move to our purposely built home away from home. With the lead up to this great excitement of new spaces to occupy, our team of mini architects, both Junior and Senior students, set to work. Taking an innovative and expressive approach, they began viewing current architectural drawings and gained a deeper understanding of the scope of areas to design. 

Illustrations of many forms were submitted from our multi-age and diverse thinkers. It soon became evident that the designs from both the younger and older children share commonalities in how they think and behave. From large couches, creative spaces, chill out zones and gaming areas. There was a clear distinctive approach to their thinking, with spaces designated solely for the Seniors, particularly from our Year 5 and 6 levels. These maturing minds expressed their desire for ownership, however, we are unsure of the practicality of having Prep to Year 4 take occupancy downstairs, while the others enjoy the comfort of theatres and technology above! Further negotiations are currently underway to ensure the new OSHC will be inclusive for all. Despite the strong emphasis for the fun items, a common theme outlined by all levels was a designated homework and library space. 

We have taken all the submitted designs into consideration and are set to move to a state of the art building which will not only set the scene ‘home away from home’, but will reflect the fruitful and emerging designs of the children, aiming to meet their individual needs and wants. 

It is a true blessing to open our doors in Term 2 and continue to create memories shared together.

Susan Cooper

Genesis OSHC Director

Ph: 3882 9013

Careers Corner

March/April 2020 Term 1 is nearly complete, and activities are beginning to increase in the Tertiary sector Over the next few months there is usually …

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Careers Corner

March/April 2020

Term 1 is nearly complete, and activities are beginning to increase in the Tertiary sector

Over the next few months there is usually a gradual build up of events targeting enrolments into tertiary institutions for 2021 as well as providing information for those beginning to plan their futures. In the middle of the times we find ourselves in, some of these may well be postponed or cancelled, always check the institution’s website before going.

  • Thursday 9 April – Interested in Nursing or Paramedics? Join in an online forum to talk about what it’s like to be one 5.30 – 7.00pm – visit ACU’s website for more details on the ‘Talk with Nurses and Paramedics, Online’ event.
  • Friday 8 – Saturday 9 May – Brisbane Careers and Employment Expo (Convention & Exhibition Centre)
  • Sunday 17 May – Open day at University of the Sunshine Coast Moreton Campus 

There is a new noticeboard up outside S22 that will have various posters of upcoming events. At present one is up for information sessions for various careers in the Australian Defence Force. As we receive offers of work for part-time or Apprenticeships or Traineeships we will place them up there as well as online as we are able.

For Year 12’s, as you begin to think of going to TAFE or university, here’s some advice from a past university student (Jess) from the “Foundation for Young Australians website. She says that “if I could go back in time, I would have a few words of advice for my younger self.”

Here are the points she suggested: 

  • Get involved with clubs and societies  
  • Show up to class   
  • Make time for fun 
  • You don’t have to rush through your degree 
  • In fact, stop rushing so much in general 
  • Don’t be afraid to change your mind 
  • Make the most of every opportunity 

“One thing I have learned is that when you get the chance to do something that excites and challenges you, take the leap and DO IT, even if it scares you.

Robin Grant

Director of Careers and Student Services

Enrolments

A reminder from the enrolments office to Genesis families As family life can become quite hectic, sibling applications for enrolment can sometimes be overlooked and …

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Enrolments

A reminder from the enrolments office to Genesis families

As family life can become quite hectic, sibling applications for enrolment can sometimes be overlooked and closing dates apply to both Prep and Year 7 entry.

Sibling Applications

Genesis families are reminded to enrol younger children (siblings) as soon as possible, particularly for Prep. Attendance at Little Genesis ELC, does not automatically transfer to an application for Prep at the College and a separate application for enrolment must be completed and directed to the Enrolments office.

Late Applications for Prep, 2021 are still be accepted.

If you have family or friends interested in applying for Prep 2021, late applications are still being accepted. Applications received after the closing date will be added to supplementary waiting lists and may still be considered for subsequent offer rounds or future years.

Late applications for Year 7, 2021 are still be accepted.

If you have family of friends who have been thinking about applying for Year 7 at Genesis Christian College, now is the time to apply. Late applications are still being accepted. Applications received after the closing date will be accepted and added to supplementary waiting lists and may still be considered for subsequent offer rounds or future years.

Application forms and the Application Process Guide, is available on the College Website 

For further information or enquiries please don’t hesitate to contact the Enrolment office by email enrolments@genesis.qld.edu.au or phone 3882 9000.

Lynn Swanson
Enrolments Registrar

Parenting Insights – Tools for managing teenage anxiety

Tools for managing teenage anxiety Anxiety is the most common mental health issue facing young people today. It impacts significantly on their happiness, wellbeing and …

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Parenting Insights – Tools for managing teenage anxiety

Tools for managing teenage anxiety

Anxiety is the most common mental health issue facing young people today. It impacts significantly on their happiness, wellbeing and learning. Untreated anxiety in young people is likely to continue to pose a problem in adulthood.

It’s normal for a young person to feel anxious from time to time. Here are some tools to help them manage their anxiousness.

Defusion 

Young people often tell themselves stories about how they appear to others, how they will do in an assignment, test or learning activity and how they will meet with challenging events. Their stories can be helpful – “I know I can do this!” or unhelpful – “I’m hopeless at sticking with projects.”

To reduce the impact of unhelpful thinking on their emotional state, teach them to distance themselves from their unhelpful stories and self-talk through the skill of defusion, or thought-distancing. Here are some examples you can use:

  • “I feel awful about this exam.” Ask “Is that helpful thinking?
  • “Everyone will find this test hard.” Ask, “Is that a thought or a fact?”
  • “I’m hopeless at school.” Add “I had a thought that I’m hopeless at school.” – it places them one step away from the thought

Mindfulness

When someone is anxious, they are often worried about a future event. Their restless mind needs to take a rest from future thinking, ruminating and worrying. Settling back into the present gives them a chance to relax and calm down. The practice of mindfulness, even if just for a few seconds, is a wonderful way to let go of their worries. Encourage your young person to practise mindfulness regularly and at different times of the day.

Here’s some mindfulness tools that can help them to bring their focus back to the present. Ask them to count out loud on their fingers:

  • Five things they can see
  • Four things they can hear
  • Three things they can feel (such as their feet in their shoes)
  • Two things they are grateful for
  • One person they love

Deep Breathing 

When someone is stressed, their whole physiology is on edge. When they are anxious their breathing becomes shallow. Deep breathing activates their relaxation response to relieve stress. As a result, the heart rate decreases, muscles relax, pupils constrict and the stomach starts to do its job that was put on hold when anxiety struck. Encourage your young person to breathe in this way:

  • Say to them “Come on, let’s take three deep breaths together”
  • Encourage them to breathe into their belly to get control over their body and steady their mind

Exercise 

Exercise releases chemicals called endorphins that increase your young person’s feelings of wellbeing. It also relieves the muscle tension that builds up over a day of working, worrying and ruminating. There are many ways to get more movement into your young person’s life including:

  • Engaging in regular sports
  • Walking to school and to other activities
  • Taking regular movement breaks from homework
  • Joining you in a morning walk

When anxiety becomes a problem 

Anxiety becomes a problem when it impacts on your young person’s quality of life and prevents them from participating in everyday activities such as school, interests and social events. If this happens your young person may need professional support.

Their school, your local general practitioner and the relevant department at your local council can assist.

Dramatic Arts

Despite the state of the world right now, we in the Dramatic Arts department are choosing to be hopeful and find the silver linings in …

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Dramatic Arts

Despite the state of the world right now, we in the Dramatic Arts department are choosing to be hopeful and find the silver linings in every situation we find ourselves in. We understand that there must be immense feelings of loss and disappointment from our students and families, as events and rehearsals are suspended until further notice, however, we are trusting in the one who created us, the one who knows us, the one who loves us and the one who has a plan for us.

We are encouraging students to now take ownership over their creative endeavours and take some time to truly rest and connect with our creator God. We hope you will join us in believing this: “I trust the next chapter because I know the author.” In every class, we are asking each student to share a good news story or something they are grateful for. We are also meditating on Psalm 91, which reminds us that God is our refuge and place of safety.

Now is the time for students to refine their performing arts skills at home. Watch YouTube tutorials, do some stretches and home workouts, choreograph a dance, compose a song, draw a picture. Do what it takes to remain creative and engaged in the arts. It is so healthy. We want to remind all families that they belong at Genesis, and continue to hold a very special place in the heart of the Dramatic Arts department.

With you on the journey.   

Emily Briddock

Innovation and Learning Leader – Dramatic Arts (Yrs 7-12)

Director of the Genesis Dance and Drama Academies

 

Care & Conduct – Secondary

Introduction to Andrew Duncan Hello, thank you all for having me back at Genesis.  I taught in the Primary and Middle school here from 2010 …

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Care & Conduct – Secondary

Introduction to Andrew Duncan

Hello, thank you all for having me back at Genesis.  I taught in the Primary and Middle school here from 2010 to 2014 and have spent the last few years working at other schools on the North side of Brisbane.  I am very happy to be back and am looking forward to reimmersing myself in the culture and community that is unique to Genesis Christian College. 

I am a proud Kiwi, having grown up on the family farms in the middle of the North Island of New Zealand.  Yes, it was a sheep farm and yes, I have played a large amount of rugby, as my now aging shoulders, knees and hips can attest to.  I first started teaching at Taupo Intermediate School in 1998 and since then have taught in schools in New Zealand, the UK and Australia. 

I moved to Brisbane in 2010 as I became engaged to a local lady, who is now my wife, and I was excited by the opportunity to teach at a Christian school having only taught in state schools before.  My proudest moments since starting at Genesis have been seeing two groups of young people graduate after being their Year Level Co-ordinator in both Year 7 and Year 9 and taking them through the Rite Journey program.  It was a long and challenging process at times, but to see those students head out into the big world and learn how they are flourishing is hugely rewarding. 

I am looking forward to getting to know and work with a whole new generation of Genesis students and families, I have been impressed with how the school and community have changed and developed during my time away, and I am confident that the future is bright. 

Andrew Duncan

Year 8 Care and Conduct Leader

Secondary Sport

Secondary Sport Over the past few weeks one of the most difficult things I have ever had to do in my role as Director of …

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Secondary Sport

Secondary Sport

Over the past few weeks one of the most difficult things I have ever had to do in my role as Director of Sport is share the news with families that the competition their child has trained all year for has to be postponed or cancelled. However, I have been so encouraged by the responses that whilst expressing disappointment, there was an understanding that the reasons behind these decisions are ultimately to protect the Health and Wellbeing of their children and the wider community. I just wanted to thank these students and families for their amazing attitudes, and this is testament to their character under adversity which is a vital component to the success of any athlete and in life.

Genesis Cross Country 

The Years 3-12 Cross Country carnival was held on Thursday 12 March. It was great to see a high level of participation in the Cross Country races, tug-o-war and house cheers competition. There were only 100 points separating 1st to 4th place and well done to all House Captains for their leadership on the day. Congratulations to Bethel house for winning the overall Cross Country shield and Jericho house for the House Spirit award.

Overall Standings

  • 1st Bethel
  • 2nd Jericho
  • 3rd Gilead
  • 4th Shiloh

House Spirit Trophy: Jericho

Age champions: 

  • 12 Years
    • Boys: 1st – Manie Van Tonder, 2nd – Luke Lendvay, 3rd – Santiago Rosario
    • Girls: 1st – Regan Burke, 2nd – Ella Postle, 3rd – Emma Nieuwoudt
  • 13 Years
    • Boys: 1st – Declan Warnes, 2nd – Ian Ballantyne, 3rd – Kairav Vanmali
    • Girls: 1st – Haley Wolters, 2nd – Kiara Keane, 3rd – Sophie Collins
  • 14 Years
    • Boys: 1st – Harrison Barr, 2nd – Henry Johnson, 3rd – Ben Clark
    • Girls: 1st – Ella Booker, 2nd – Grace McCarthy, 3rd – Alyssa Steyn
  • 15 Years
    • Boys: 1st – Mitchell Wolters, 2nd – Lincoln Smith, 3rd – Hudson Baxter
    • Girls: 1st – Stella Botha, 2nd – Jessica Bell, 3rd – Taya Walker
  • 16 Years
    • Boys: 1st – William MacIntosh, 2nd – Brayden Warnes, 3rd – Sean Fredericks
    • Girls: 1st – Charlize Sivyer, 2nd – Ella Smith, 3rd – Abbie Ruiz
  • Open
    • Boys: 1st – Byron De Villiers, 2nd – Corey Kingston, 3rd – Declan Hannah
    • Girls: 1st – Georgia Fredericks, 2nd – Torryn Squires, 3rd – Antoya Dan

Tennis

Genesis Christian College Tennis Championships

The first annual Genesis Christian College Tennis Championships was held on 7 and 8 March. We hosted our first ever College Tennis Tournament. All players showed great sportsmanship and terrific tennis skills during the event. We look forward to seeing more players take part in 2021. Congratulations to Secondary school Winner – Jacob Naylor (Year 9) and Runner Up – Manie Van Tonder.

Futsal 

Genesis Christian College were represented at the South East Queensland Futsal Titles in the Under 13 and Under 16 Boys divisions. Our teams performed extremely well and have progressed to the Finals of the tournament which will be held later this year. Congratulations to all the boys involved in the tournament.

Under 13 Team

  • Ian Ballantyne
  • Kairav Vanmali
  • Izac Craze
  • Ryan Aldridge
  • Shayden Wolmarans
  • Isaac Smith
  • Nick Lamprell
  • David Holmes
  • Rohan Vanmali
  • Jordan Vellnagel

Under 16 Team

  • Caelan Magill
  • William Lee
  • Lucas Ballantyne
  • Vrishin Vanmali
  • Tom Pokarier
  • Jack O’Connor
  • Luke Dipplesman
  • Brayden Warnes
  • Jack Maher
  • Zac Coulibaly

Swimming

Metropolitan North Swimming Trials

Congratulations to the following students for their selection in the Metropolitan North Swimming Team:

  • Kaelah Bourke – 50 freestyle, 50 backstroke
  • Riley Bushell – 50 freestyle
  • Patrick Clarke – 100 butterfly
  • Margot Dawson – 50 freestyle, 200 freestyle, 400 freestyle, 100 freestyle
  • Ellen Gittins – 100 breastroke, 50 breastroke, 200 breastroke
  • Olivia Gittins – 800 freestyle, 400 freestle, 1500 freestyle
  • Isaac Hartland – 100 breastroke, 50 breastroke, 200 breastroke
  • Kirralee Hayes – 50 freestyle, 50 backstroke, 100 butterly, 50 butterly, 100 freestyle, 100 backstroke
  • Olivia Lee – 100 breastroke, 200 breastoke
  • Benjamin Clarke – 200 backstroke
  • Lauren Whalley – 50 freestyle, 200 freestyle, 400 freestyle

Brisbane Swimming Championships

The Genesis Aquatics Swim Club competed at the Metropolitan Swimming Championships recently. Our team of 35 swimmers performed extremely well winning 11 medals. Three of the medallists are students at Genesis, they are:

  • Olivia Gittins (13 years) – Gold 1500 freestyle, Silver 800 freestyle
  • Riley Bushell (17 years) – Gold 50 freestyle
  • Lauren Whalley (13 years) – Bronze 50 freestyle

District Sport

Congratulations to the following students for their selection into the Piner Rivers District team:

  • Lachlan Tripp – U12 Rugby League team
  • Lucy Topp – U12 Basketball Girls
  • Cassandra McGinley – U19 Volleyball
  • Keira Holmes – U19 Volleyball
  • Bethan Evans – U19 Volleyball
  • Alyssa Steyn – U15 Basketball
  • Byron de Villiers – U19 Football
  • Claire McIvor – U13-U19 Hockey
  • Caelan Magill – U16 Football
  • Stephanie Hallas – U15 Football
  • Hayley Fulcher – U15 Touch Football

Other Sporting Achievements 

QLD Track & Field Championships

Congratulations to Ella Booker (Year 9) who recently competed at the QLD Track and Field Championships and came in 1st place in the 400m. This is an outstanding achievement to win the State Championships.

Cricket

Janelle Pais (Year 8) has been invited to QLD Cricket Academy programme for under 15 players, after her recent performance at the QLD State Championships in Bundaberg earlier this year. This is an incredible achievement and we wish Janelle every success in this excellence program.

Track Cycling

Congratulations to Stephanie Leech in qualifying for the National Track Cycling Championships. This is an outstanding achievement and reward for the countless hours of training. Well done Stephanie.

Anthony Arro

Director of Sport – Secondary

Sister School Exchange

Thank you Genesis Community! The college would like to express our sincere appreciation to all our host families for their patience and understanding over the …

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Sister School Exchange

Thank you Genesis Community!

The college would like to express our sincere appreciation to all our host families for their patience and understanding over the last few weeks as difficult decisions were made by our sister school in regards to their long planned exchange visit.

Our students sent them messages of encouragement to all at the sister school. The staff at the Minokamo High School extend their thanks and appreciation for our prayers and stated that everyone is well, enjoying an extended Spring vacation and staying strong and healthy!

Mrs Learna Shimizu

College Project Officer

Secondary Highlights

Dear Parents, There’s no avoiding that my article this edition will focus on COVID-19 and its implications on our Secondary students. Can I assure you …

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Secondary Highlights

Dear Parents,

There’s no avoiding that my article this edition will focus on COVID-19 and its implications on our Secondary students.

Can I assure you that in this season the entire staff at Genesis have a laser like focus on each child’s learning and their wellbeing? We are here alongside you. We are here making this year of learning count.

That said, we are in a marathon with COVID-19, not a sprint. It is clear that restrictions will continue through Term 2 and possibly beyond. I am very appreciative of the kindness and support shown by our parents as we close out Term 1. In preparation for the marathon ahead, all staff are planning how to support learning for every student in the College and how to remain connected with every family. It is likely we will have periods of time where learning is delivered via Gensis@Home. This delivery of learning through digital platforms and communication methods will see us ‘weather the storm’ well.

I’d like to encourage you, as you go about daily life at home, to be the steady ship and to help our children find peace in the midst of panic. Investing into the new cycle should be matched with your calm presence and time spent in nourishing activities. As staff, we are keen to turn conversations of fear into opportunities for faith- God has not lost control, God still loves us. The ‘why’ question is the wrong category of question in times such as these. It is like asking ‘How big is red?’ The right question is a ‘who’ question. Who is our God? He is all-loving, He is all-powerful and He is mighty to save.

for this we have Jesus

As Easter draws near, rest in His good favour to us all.

Blessings,

Stuart Taylor

Head of School – Secondary